At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily operations, drive efficiency, and oversee production and quality management.
- Company: Join one of Europe's largest precision sheet metal fabrication companies with a diverse customer base.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible hours, 25 days holiday, and a company pension scheme.
- Other info: This is a fully site-based role; applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
- Why this job: Shape the culture of a growing business while making a significant impact in manufacturing.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in manufacturing, strong communication skills, and a degree in Engineering or Business.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Location: South Durham
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Salary: £80,000 – £100,000 DOE + package
Hours: Monday to Friday, site-based with flexible start/finish times and early Friday finish.
Are you an experienced Senior Leader in Manufacturing & Engineering? Do you have experience in driving performance, safety, lean principles, output, cost, and efficiency? Can you lead people and teams to be the best they can be, to deliver the best results? Are you ready to broaden your experience and become an Operations Director with one of the North East’s most established Engineering businesses?
About the Business
We are one of the largest subcontract precision sheet metal fabrication companies in Europe, and a leader in the UK sheet metal fabrication market, serving a very diverse portfolio of customers. We are looking for a future leader who will shape the culture and direction of the business.
About the Role
We are seeking a commercially aware and operationally focused Operations Director to lead our Durham site. This is a pivotal leadership role in a well-established and growing UK manufacturer. You will oversee site-wide operations, including production, engineering, quality, and support functions. As a key member of the senior leadership team, you will work closely with the Managing Director and Owner to develop and execute strategic plans, drive efficiency, champion safety, and deliver exceptional results across the board. This opportunity would suit a Manufacturing professional who is currently an Operations Manager or Head of Operations in Manufacturing, ready to step up into an Operations Director role, or an established Operations Director who is ambitious and would like to drive the business forward to the next level.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all daily operational activities and ensure alignment with business objectives.
- Collaborate on a three-year rolling strategic business plan.
- Champion health, safety, and environmental compliance.
- Oversee quality management systems and continuous improvement.
- Monitor financial performance and implement cost-efficiency initiatives.
- Support engineering innovation and lean manufacturing processes.
- Optimise supply chain and materials purchasing.
- Align production capacity with customer demand and sales forecasts.
- Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team.
- Act as an ambassador for the company with customers, suppliers, and partners.
What We’re Looking For
- A Senior leader with recent and relevant experience of working in a similar role, within a manufacturing/Engineering environment (essential).
- A charismatic leader with clear vision and direction, who will continue to foster and shape a positive working culture.
- Demonstratable track record of managing cross-functional teams across HSE, Quality, Engineering, Commercial, and Finance.
- Wide knowledge and experience of continuous improvement and lean manufacturing.
- Experience within the sheet metal fabrication sector, including exposure to machined and fabricated components (desirable).
- Excellent communication, people management, and project leadership skills.
- Financially astute with a data-driven approach with previous experience managing a P&L.
- Knowledge of ISO standards and modern manufacturing practices.
- Degree in Engineering, Business, or related field (Master’s/Lean Six Sigma desirable).
Why Join Us?
- Competitive salary of £80,000–£100,000 (DOE).
- 25 days’ holiday + 8 bank holidays.
- Flexible working hours + early finish on Fridays.
- Company pension scheme.
- Wellbeing and employee assistance benefits.
- Be part of a progressive business with strong market presence.
- Working for a business who will champion your growth and development.
If you would like to take the next step in your career and make a difference where you will be a valued member of an established business, please apply today.
Please note: This is a fully site-based role (5 days/week). Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Operations Director - Manufacturing in Ferryhill employer: Futures Consulting Group Ltd
Join one of the North East's leading engineering businesses as an Operations Director, where you will be part of a dynamic and supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With competitive salaries, flexible working hours, and a commitment to health and safety, this role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of a well-established manufacturing company while enjoying a balanced work-life environment in South Durham.
Contact Details:
Futures Consulting Group Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director - Manufacturing in Ferryhill
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the manufacturing and engineering sectors. Attend industry events, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and connect with current or former employees of the company to gain insights into their culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the latest trends in lean manufacturing and continuous improvement. Being well-versed in these areas will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to driving efficiency and innovation within the organisation.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led cross-functional teams in previous roles. Highlight your experience in managing P&L and implementing cost-efficiency initiatives to showcase your financial acumen.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the company's products and services, particularly in sheet metal fabrication. Understanding their offerings will allow you to speak more confidently about how you can contribute to their success during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Director - Manufacturing in Ferryhill
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in manufacturing and engineering. Focus on your leadership roles, achievements in driving performance, and any specific projects that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and improve efficiency.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the role and the company. Discuss how your background aligns with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description, such as championing health and safety or optimising supply chains.
Highlight Key Achievements:In both your CV and cover letter, include quantifiable achievements that showcase your impact in previous roles. For example, mention any cost-efficiency initiatives you led or improvements in production output that you achieved.
Showcase Leadership Skills:Emphasise your leadership style and how you have successfully managed cross-functional teams. Provide examples of how you have fostered a positive working culture and developed high-performing teams in your past positions.
How to prepare for a job interview at Futures Consulting Group Ltd
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Operations Director, your ability to lead and inspire teams is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed cross-functional teams and driven performance improvements in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Be ready to discuss your experience with managing P&L and implementing cost-efficiency initiatives. Highlight specific instances where your financial insights led to improved operational outcomes.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Given the focus on lean manufacturing and continuous improvement, come prepared with examples of how you've championed these principles in past positions. Discuss any relevant methodologies like Lean Six Sigma that you've applied.
✨Align with Company Values
Research the company’s culture and values before the interview. Be prepared to articulate how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to shaping a positive working environment.
